Larry Buron '87

For Larry Buron ’87, the University of St. Thomas was both a family connection and a life-changing opportunity. He first heard about the university through his father, a proud Tommie whose own studies were cut short due to financial hardship. When Larry received a scholarship offer just one day after his campus visit, the decision became clear. “This scholarship made it feasible to go to St. Thomas,” he said. “I said yes on the spot, and I’m glad I did.”

During his time on campus, Buron found both academic inspiration and lifelong friendships. Living in Brady Hall and later the Wilder House, he formed bonds that remain meaningful today. In the classroom, influential professors in economics and mathematics sparked his passion for learning and critical thinking. Mentorship from faculty members including Dr. Robert Garhart and Dr. Craig Marcott helped inspire Buron to pursue a PhD in economics at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, setting the stage for a career dedicated to research and service.

Buron’s professional work has focused on some of society’s most pressing challenges. As a researcher in Washington, D.C., he studied homelessness, housing policy and job training, seeking ways to improve stability and opportunity for individuals facing difficult circumstances. His work reflects the St. Thomas mission of advancing the common good by using research and data to inform solutions that strengthen communities and support those in need.

Scholarship support has remained central to Buron’s connection to St. Thomas. In honor of his father’s deep appreciation for the university, Buron and his siblings established the Ed Buron Academic Excellence and Work Ethic Scholarship. The fund supports students who demonstrate both academic promise and financial need, helping ensure that others can access the same opportunities that shaped his own path.

Buron encourages current Tommies to embrace the breadth of learning available to them and explore subjects beyond their immediate interests. He believes the most meaningful careers are those grounded in service to others. “When you look back at your career,” he said, “you are likely to feel most positive about the times you helped other people in their career or life.